Treatment Programs
Aquatic Physical Therapy can be used to treat a variety of physical conditions. All ages can benefit from the warmth and support of the water. All treatment programs are designed for your specific diagnosis, and multiple areas can be addressed at one time.
Arthritis
Arthritis and its close relative, fibromyalgia, can affect either a single or often multiple joints. It is characterized by the erosion of bony surfaces and their articulating tendinous and ligamentous structures. This renders the joint unstable and painful. Exercising on land may no longer be an option as the bones are further compressed by the effects of gravity. The pool provides an excellent alternative for strengthening and cardiovascular fitness by decreasing weight bearing through the joints.
Athletic Injuries
A variety of athletic injuries can be rehabilitated through aquatic physical therapy, with or without subsequent referral to land based physical therapy if necessary. The water provides a buoyant, supportive environment where rehab can begin earlier than on land with decreased pain and inflammation as the water is used to assist progressive movements.
Geriatrics
As we age, the normal wear and tear on our joints can often result in acute pain and dysfunction. Often our normal daily tasks become difficult to complete. Maybe our balance becomes affected, and our risk of falls increases. The water provides a safe and comfortable environment to strengthen muscles and address balance issues without fear of falling. The water is never still, and therefore constantly challenges our balance mechanisms.
Neuromuscular Disorders
Multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, developmental delay, and cerebellar ataxia are just a few of the diagnosis which can benefit from aquatic physical therapy. The water provides a unique three dimensional environment which can be used to treat abnormal muscle tone, gait dysfunction, and balance deficits as well as other deficits resulting from neuromuscular disorders.
Pre/Post Surgical
Surgical interventions can often leave an individual with restricted movement or strength. By addressing these issues as soon as possible, and when your doctor advises, the effects of surgery can be minimized and strength and motion restored to normal.
Spinal Stabilization
The spine represents a well organized and structured matrix of bones, muscles, and nerves. When something goes wrong, we develop pain and our daily life becomes interrupted. Restoring the spine to normal often requires the skills of a physical therapist to evaluate the problem and determine the best course of treatment. Spinal stabilization refers to the course of treatment designed to strengthen and balance the muscles which provide support and movement of our spine. After back surgery it becomes a priority to reestablish the strength and function of the components of the spine in order to restore normal function.
Stroke Rehab
Following a stroke, or cerebral vascular accident (CVA), restoring function to the involved arm or leg becomes a huge priority. Physiologically, spasticity will decrease within 15-20 minutes of immersion into a heated pool. Aquatic physical therapy will take advantage of this to stretch and strengthen involved muscles with a variety of techniques and positions. Weight bearing through the weak arm and leg has been shown to help normalize tone, and is accomplished easily in the aquatic environment. Walking is practiced in a supportive environment with less fatigue and greater endurance for activity.
Total Joint Replacements
Those with new hips and new knees can breathe a sigh of relief as they are supported in a warm water environment. Programs are designed to utilize the buoyancy of the water to assist you through exercises designed to gain range of motion, then progressed to challenge your muscles to gain strength and restore function.
Contact Us To Schedule A Consultation
Aquatic Rehab and Consulting provides aquatic physical therapy services in two facilities within the Orange County area. For more information regarding physical therapy please contact our office. You may also fill out the form, and a member of our staff will call you back regarding your request.